Step-by-step Guide to Using Acid Neutralizers in Your Home
Acid neutralizers can significantly improve the quality of your home's water by increasing its pH level. However, using these systems effectively requires knowledge of the installation process, how to operate them, and how to conduct routine maintenance checks. In this guide, we'll walk you through these processes step-by-step.
Installation of Acid Neutralizer
It's crucial to start with a professional installation to ensure the acid neutralizer operates correctly and safely. Here are the general steps:
- Site Selection: Choose a spot for the system close to your main water line and drain, but avoid areas with high temperatures or excessive humidity.
- Connection: Connect the acid neutralizer to your water supply following the your pressure tank. Be sure to turn off the main water supply during installation.
- Media Fill: Fill the tank with neutralizing media (typically calcite or magnesia), leaving some space at the top.
- Final Touches: Install any bypass valves, connect the drain line, and carefully turn on the water supply.
Operating Your Acid Neutralizer
Operation of your acid neutralizer is usually straightforward. Here are some key steps:
- Test Water: Regularly test your water to monitor its pH level. You should aim for a pH close to 7.
- Adjust System: Depending on your water's pH, adjust the system accordingly. This usually involves manipulating the backwash frequency (if you are using a backwashing system) and the amount of neutralizing media.
- Backwash: If your system is a backwashing model, schedule regular backwash cycles to clean out sediment. Non-backwashing systems have easier maintenance and are recommended, check out our best model, the Clack Vortech Non-backwashing Acid Neutralizer.
Routine Maintenance Checks
Maintaining your system ensures it remains efficient and durable. Here's a quick maintenance checklist:
- Inspect: Regularly inspect the system for leaks or damage.
- Replenish Media: Depending on your household's water usage, replenish the neutralizing media as necessary, if you're using one of our tanks, you can easily shine a flashlight (even your smartphone's will work) through the semi-translucent tank to see how much calcite you have left. The calcite should typically last anywhere between 12-36 months
- Clean System: Clean your system periodically, especially if you have a gravel-bedded model. This might involve disconnecting and emptying the tank, thoroughly rinsing it, refilling the media, and running a regeneration cycle.
- Seek Professional Help: If you notice persistent issues or are unsure about something, call in a professional.
- Replacing Your System: We typically recommend replacing a quality system after 15-20 years, a professional's inspection should help you determine how well your system is operating.
Professional Help
Don't hesitate to seek professional assistance when needed. If you have any questions on which acid neutralizer you should purchase, we're here to help. Contact us however you'd like:
- Text us at 443-277-2204
- Give us a call at 800-460-5810
- Email us at support@midatlanticwater.net.
Conclusion
With these steps, you should be well-equipped to install, operate, and maintain your home acid neutralizer system. If you'd like help deciding which acid neutralizer is right for your home, check out our guide to buying an acid neutralizer. Furthermore, if you'd like a deeper dive on acid neutralizers, check out our Complete Guide to Acid Neutralizers.